Barge Supervisor
- Supervise all barge operations including loading, unloading, ballasting, cargo securing, and stability monitoring
- Coordinate with tugboat masters for safe towing, positioning, and mooring of barges
- Manage deck crew and assign daily tasks for mooring, anchoring, cargo handling, and maintenance
- Ensure proper load distribution, weight calculations, and securing methods to maintain barge stability
- Conduct daily inspections of barge hull, deck, hatches, mooring lines, and cargo securing equipment
- Monitor barge draft and ballast levels during loading/unloading and adjust as necessary
- Coordinate with project site teams for timely delivery and positioning of barges
- Enforce safety regulations including PPE, permit-to-work, man-overboard procedures, and emergency response
- Conduct toolbox talks and safety briefings before each operation
- Maintain daily logs of barge activities, cargo manifests, crew attendance, and equipment status
- Communicate with vessel traffic services, port control, and project management during transit and berthing
- Ensure compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, and local port/inland waterway regulations
- Supervise routine maintenance including painting, welding repairs, greasing, and equipment checks
- Report incidents, near-misses, or equipment failures to Marine Superintendent immediately
- Coordinate with classification surveyors for barge inspections and certification renewals
- Manage bunkering, freshwater, provisions, and waste disposal for barge crew
- Assist in barge mobilization and demobilization for project requirements
- Diploma or certificate in Nautical Science, Marine Operations, or related field
- Minimum 5-7 years of experience as Barge Supervisor, Barge Master, or similar role
- Valid certification as Barge Master or Coxswain (preferred)
- Experience with various barge types: deck barges, hopper barges, flat-top barges, jack-up barges
- Strong knowledge of cargo securing, ballasting, stability calculations, and towing procedures
- Familiarity with tug and barge operations, mooring systems, and anchoring techniques
- Basic understanding of marine diesel engines, pumps, and deck machinery
- Valid offshore safety certifications (BOSIET/HUET, STCW) for offshore roles
- Proficiency in VHF communication, GPS, and navigation equipment
- Fluent in English; knowledge of Hindi/Urdu or Arabic is a plus
Required Skills:
- Strong leadership and crew management abilities
- Excellent communication and coordination with tugs and project teams
- Problem-solving for operational, stability, and mechanical issues
- Attention to detail for cargo loading and stability monitoring
- Ability to work under pressure and in dynamic marine environments
- Physical fitness for deck duties and emergency response